Living to make much of Jesus

When Jesus Doesn’t Meet Our Expectations

He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it….(John 12:6).

What keeps us from being able to see Jesus? In Judas’ case, I believe it was selfishness. You see, Judas didn’t understand fully who Jesus was because he allowed his sinful desires to become his master instead. If we are not careful, we can be just like Judas, stuck in our sinful desires, unable to see Jesus for who He truly is for our lives.

Judas walked in darkness because Jesus didn’t meet his expectations. Have you ever done that? Gotten mad at Jesus because He didn’t answer your prayers in the way or timing that you wanted? In my own immaturity, I’ve done that.

The scary thing is, we’ll betray Jesus, just like Judas, until we choose to place our expectations out of the darkness and into the light. I have learned in life that what my heart needs more than anything is not justice or life to be fair, but grace. Yes, I need a heart that is willing to submit into my Father’s hands so that I might receive His unending grace.

The crazy thing, Jesus loved Judas. That’s great news for you and me who have our own Judas moments. Jesus never stops loving us, even when we betray Him and go our own way.

I’m not sure where life has brought you or what battle you’re facing. Rest assured that God’s light awaits to carry your life into a place of His joy, comfort, and grace. The enemy of your soul wants to steal your joy and get you to focus only on yourself. This kind of selfishness is so easy for me to fall into. Therefore, I must always be putting my desires, expectations, wishes and wants into the hands of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Lord, I trust you. You are so good. I don’t want to be like Judas who thought only of himself, but I know that without you, I’m quick to be like him. Today I want to live with you in mind, with your grace guiding me and with a heart of humility that is ready to submit to your will, in Jesus name, Amen.